Sport level 3 (Basketball Elite Performance)

The BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport (Basketball Elite Performance Route) is a sport-based qualification (equivalent to 3 A Levels) with a heavily basketball focused element. Aimed at students who demonstrate a high level of skill in basketball, the course aims to give learners a good overall grounding in sport and exercise theory (linked to basketball wherever possible), whilst at the same time allowing them to further develop their basketball skills through coaching, training and practical experience.

Much of the course takes place on the basketball court, in the fitness suite and in classrooms. Students on the basketball pathway will receive 7 hours of basketball coaching each week, 4 hours of strength and conditioning and the opportunity to play in the college's Basketball Academy. Playing in the academy will give students the chance to represent the college in Wednesday fixtures in the men's Academy Basketball League (ABL) or women's basketball league. All students will undertake a work placement, related to a chosen career outcome (e.g. basketball coaching).

All League players will receive:

• free membership and use of the College gym and fitness suite
• free fitness, strength and conditioning, exercise and nutrition programmes designed and monitored for you
• free access to all home game footage - all your shots, assists, rebounds and turnovers are broken down so you can see them at a click of a button, helping identify how you can improve your game
• discounted training kit, tracksuit

Additional Study

On your programme you will also study for Functional Skills or GCSE English and Maths qualifications, if you do not already hold a minimum GCSE grade C/grade 4. You will also have the opportunity to gain additional awards which could include sports massage, basketball coaching, fitness instructing, sports leadership and first aid.

Key Units

Anatomy and Physiology in Sport

Explore the structure and function of the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and also learn the fundamentals of the energy systems linked to basketball performance.  

Fitness Testing

Gain an understanding of fitness testing and the importance of health screening and health monitoring tests. Complete basketball related fitness tests tracking your progress throughout the year.  

Training and Programming

Plan fitness training sessions and design fitness training programmes to improve basketball performance.  

Outdoor Adventure Activities

Participate in exciting activities in the outdoors, learning and applying practical skills and techniques, further developing your leadership skills and qualities that will help you on and off the court.  

Safe and Effective Sport Coaching

Gain knowledge of the roles, responsibilities, skills and techniques of a basketball coach and how to apply them whilst coaching and/or leading basketball sessions.

Sport Leadership

Study what makes a good leader, the different capacities of this role, and the leadership skills and techniques necessary when leading activities in different roles.  

Sports Injuries

Gain an overview of injury prevention, identification and basic treatment. The unit also explores differing rehabilitatory interventions for common basketball injuries.  

Sports Nutrition

Gain a broad understanding of the importance of nutrition and hydration to a basketball performance.  

Sport Psychology

Develop your understanding of how psychology can be applied to basketball performance and exercise environments.  

Tactical and Technical Sport Skills

Assess your own and others technical and tactical skills, and plan your own basketball development.  

Practical Team Sports

Explore the skills, techniques, tactics and rules of basketball (and one other sport) through practical participation.